We are open today until 6:30 pm. Call 020 7590 0610

Three Classic Coastal Drives on Prince Edward Island

Epic road trips in Atlantic Canada

Article content

10 March 2023 by David Ward

With its easy-to-navigate road network coupled with gorgeous coastlines, sweeping beaches and delicious seafood, Prince Edward Island is prime self-drive territory. To help you plan, our experts have picked out three not-to-be-missed coastal routes that will help you get the most out of your holiday in this pretty corner of Atlantic Canada.

North Cape Coastal Drive

Showcasing 350 kilometres of some of eastern Canada’s most captivating coastline, this route is the ideal introduction to Prince Edward Island’s unique cultures, landscapes and delicious cuisine. Expect a host of fascinating sights, from clashing tides to lighthouse hotels, houses made of bottles and even a giant, 14-foot-high potato – we kid you not. Of course, you’ll also be treated to some delightful coastal stretches, from Summerside’s beachfront to the pretty bays, lighthouses and walking trails of Cedar Dunes Provincial Park. Pause to pick apples at the Arlington Orchards, enjoy Bannock and clams in the sand at Lennox Island and don’t miss the local oysters for which the region is rightfully famed – this is the Oyster Coast, after all.

View of West Point Lighthouse, Cedar Dunes Provincial Park on Prince Edward Island, Atlantic Canada
West Point Lighthouse, Cedar Dunes Provincial Park

Central Coastal Drive

Swapping between the north and south coasts, this 253-kilometre driving route takes in some of the province's most famous sights and attractions, including the golden beaches and rugged red cliffs of Prince Edward Island National Park and the eight-mile-long Confederation Bridge. Indeed, between ultra-scenic drives though rolling farmland, you’ll experience everything from incredible cuisine to rejuvenating hikes, swims in provincial parks and the chance to explore a whole catalogue of historic sites and settlements. You’ll also head along the Green Gables Shore, bringing you right into the heart of Anne of Green Gables country – the setting for L M Montgomery’s famous novel.

A view of the house that inspired the book Anne of Green Gables, Prince Edward Island, Canada
Anne of Green Gables country, Prince Edward Island

Points East Coastal Drive

If beaches are your thing, this 475-kilometre drive could be for you, with no fewer than 50 sandy bays situated just minutes apart. Along the way, more of those emblematic red cliffs are interspersed with scenic harbours and village communities – host to a wealth of farm shops and locally-run eateries – all paving the way for a truly relaxing, and delicious holiday. In fact, the food here is a real highlight, with ultra-fresh seafood and a delicious array of seasonal farm-to-table ingredients showcased in the likes of beachside fish shacks, speciality food trucks and a wide range of excellent restaurants. Be sure to wash it all down with a locally brewed beer.

Aerial view of the East Point Lighthouse, part of the Points East Coastal Drive on Prince Edward Island
East Point Lighthouse, Prince Edward Island

To find out more about our holidays to Prince Edward Island, explore our suggested itineraries below, or call our Canada experts who are on hand to help you plan your Atlantic Canada road trip.

Related offers

Prince Edward Island lobster, Atlantic Canada

A Taste of Prince Edward Island Self-Drive

13-day tailor-made self-drive from £800 pp

This self-drive of Prince Edward Island is the perfect introduction to the province, made through its renowned cuisine – expect superb seafood and high-quality farm-to-fork produce throughout.

Fishing village, Nova Scotia

The Charms of Atlantic Canada‬

12-day tailor-made self-drive from £2,485 pp incl. flights

Driving spectacularly scenic routes, this superb-value getaway showcases the best of Atlantic Canada. You’ll stay in historic properties as you enjoy included whale-watching cruises and entrance into a wealth of historic sites.

Why book with Wexas Travel?

At Wexas, we specialise in bespoke travel experiences. Our itineraries are just samples of what we can arrange, and can be changed depending on your precise needs, finances and ideas by our experienced destination specialists.

Contact one of our consultants on 020 7590 0610 to discuss how we can tailor your holiday.

Learn why Wexas is the leader in creating luxury holidays. What is tailor-made travel?

Expert advice & support

Visit us in our London office

Let our travel specialists curate the perfect holiday:

  • Inspirational ideas based on experience
  • Established for over 50 years
  • Tailor a holiday to your precise requirements
  • Personalised quotes and documentation

Every step of the way

Every step of the way

Our services are with you from start to finish:

  • Dedicated personal consultants
  • Free airport lounges on qualifying bookings
  • Care and guidance pre, post and during holiday
  • Full financial security: ABTA & ATOL protected